by Staff Writer
Thursday, 22nd May 2025
Both West Ham United and Nottingham Forest have been charged by the FA for failing to prevent their players from behaving in an "improper and/or provocative way" during last weekend's Premier League encounter in Stratford.
Turning a blind eye to the shortcomings of match official Sam Barrott - who should perhaps be grateful he isn't facing a separate charge of bringing the game into disrepute following an error-strewn performance - the game's governing body, never shy of handing out fines where possible in order to boost their fine art collection have charged both clubs as a result of a melee that occurred in the 13th minute of 16 added-on at the end of the second half.
"West Ham and Nottingham Forest have been charged in relation to the mass confrontation at their Premier League game on Sunday, May 18," read a terse statement from the FA.
"It's alleged that both clubs failed to ensure their players didn't behave in an improper and/or provocative way around the 103rd minute. West Ham and Nottingham Forest have to provide their responses by Friday, May 23."
West Ham were beaten 2-1 in what was the club's final home game of a torrid 2024/25 campaign, the worst for some considerable time - the effect of which was compounded by having no welcome distraction from a dour domestic campaign in the shape of European football, to which the fanbase had become accustomed to during David Moyes' tenure.
Referee Barrott, 32, came in for heavy criticism for his handling of the game, during which he made a string of incorrect and/or questionable decisions which infuriated both sets of supporters.
Neither club had commented on the charges at time of writing.
* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.